An introduction to the Bee Gees, one of the best bands of all time, in my humble opinion. But seriously, ten songs is, of course, merely the tip of a massive iceberg. Hopefully, this list of the best Bee Gees songs of all time will encourage you to dive a bit deeper into the oceans of Bee Gees genius. (In alphabetical order)
Alone (Still Waters, 1997)
Probably represents the band’s peak moment in its post-eighties commercial meltdown. A wonderful interplay of melodies with Robin’s delightful tenor highlighted in the chorus.
How Can You Mend A Broken Heart (Trafalgar, 1971)
A worldwide smash hit when first released and a popular choice for a cover, notably one by Al Green. A wistful tune that Barry delivers brilliantly especially in the chorus.
How Deep is Your Love (Saturday Night Fever, 1977)
One of the trio’s signature songs. Yet another #1 on the back of the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack album. A song about doubting a lover’s commitment to the relationship, if one reads into the lyrics carefully.
Love So Right (Children of the World, 1976)
Barry claimed that this song was the brothers trying their best to emulate 60s soul group, The Delfonics. Distinctive for Barry’s full use of his falsetto, the heartbreak expressed in the lyric is a typical Bee Gees sentiment, with the bridge – moving from major to minor in the changes, particularly poignant.
Man For All Seasons (2 Years On, 1970)
A deep album cut that is memorable for Robin’s ascending vocals in the pre-chorus. Featured as the b-side of the better known “Lonely Days” hit single. A gorgeous demonstration of the Bee Gees chamber pop sound.
Melody Fair (Odessa, 1969)
This is a very special one for a variety of reasons. First Bee Gees song I fell in love with after watching the S.W.A.L.K. movie (1971) when I was 10 years old. Still beautiful after all this time.
Mr Natural (Mr Natural, 1974)
A title track/single during the Bee Gees’ transitional period with its depressive chorus lyrics belying the upbeat tone of the music. “When I walk in the rain, you won’t know that I’m crying/Smile on my face but I’m trying/I’m trying to understand that a love that is lost can never be found again/And you can see me dance, I look like a happy man”
Nights on Broadway (Main Course, 1975)
The opening track on Main Course, signalled the band’s new R&B direction though the extended balladic bridge (“I will wait…”) rather negated that somewhat. Probably better seen as two songs in one!
Spirits (Having Flown) (Spirits Having Flown, 1979)
How do you follow a monster like Saturday Night Fever? More of the same perhaps? While most of the songs on the best-selling LP doubled down on the R&B flavour, it was in this smooth jazzy number that hints of what was to come was in evidence.
You Win Again (E.S.P., 1987)
After the tepid response to Living Eyes (1981), the band began a creative slowdown and commercial decline from which they never quite recovered. This single was the exception to that general rule. A stridently electronic sound that hit #1 across the globe.
There you have it – I am sure that you have your own thoughts as to the songs that merit inclusion in a top ten list of the best Bee Gees songs of all time. Let me know at the Power of Pop Facebook page!
… still there’s more …